Singapore 1–0 Bangladesh: Harhys Stewart Fires Lions to Unbeaten AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifying Finish
- SportPlus News
- 16 hours ago
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A first international goal from Harhys Stewart proved decisive as the Lions completed qualification unbeaten, finishing top of Group C with 14 points from four wins and two draws.
SINGAPORE, 1 April 2026 - Singapore closed out their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Qualifiers Final Round Group C campaign with a narrow but deserved 1–0 victory over Bangladesh at the Singapore National Stadium on Tuesday night.
A first international goal from Harhys Stewart proved decisive as the Lions completed qualification unbeaten, finishing top of Group C with 14 points from four wins and two draws.
The result capped a historic qualifying run for Singapore, who had already secured their spot at the AFC Asian Cup 2027 after defeating Hong Kong national football team away in November.
Stewart’s First International Goal Breaks Deadlock
In front of roughly 30,000 fans, Singapore initially struggled to break down a disciplined Bangladesh national football team side.
The Lions attempted to exploit the flanks, with Ryhan Stewart delivering a dangerous cross toward striker Ikhsan Fandi in the 20th minute, forcing Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma into action.
Singapore eventually found the breakthrough in the 31st minute.
A sweeping cross-field pass from Irfan Fandi located Glenn Kweh. His initial effort was parried, but the rebound fell perfectly for Harhys Stewart, who fired home emphatically to score his first goal for Singapore.
Bangladesh Threaten But Lions Hold Firm
Despite trailing, Bangladesh remained competitive and nearly equalised before halftime.
A defensive scramble saw veteran defender Safuwan Baharudin produce a crucial block, although Bangladesh appealed unsuccessfully for a penalty after the rebound challenge.
Singapore were also forced into an early change when Glenn Kweh was stretchered off following a studs-up tackle, with Ilhan Fandi replacing him.
After the break, Bangladesh pushed forward, forcing Singapore goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud into a strong save in the 51st minute.
Ilhan Fandi thought he had doubled the lead midway through the second half after a brilliant through ball from Shah Shahiran, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Bangladesh’s best opportunity arrived in the 79th minute when a cross from Hamza Choudhury found Mirajul Islam, whose effort struck the post with Izwan beaten.
Singapore, however, held firm to secure the victory.
Gavin Lee: Result Good, Performance Not
Singapore head coach Gavin Lee admitted after the match that his side could still improve despite the result.
“We're happy with the win, but there's lots to be desired with the performance,” Lee said.
He also noted that the electric atmosphere at the National Stadium affected his team’s composure, adding that learning to manage such pressure will be key ahead of the Asian Cup.
Man of the match Harhys Stewart echoed those sentiments, saying the team will use the time before the tournament to improve and prepare for tougher opposition.
Singapore Finish Qualifiers Unbeaten
With the win, Singapore concluded their qualifying campaign with:
4 wins, 2 draws
14 points (Group C winners)
Unbeaten record
More importantly, the Lions head into the AFC Asian Cup 2027 with growing confidence and a squad continuing to develop under Gavin Lee.
For Singapore fans, Tuesday night was not just about the result—it was about celebrating a historic qualification and the promise of bigger challenges ahead on Asia’s biggest stage. #AFCAsianCup2027 #SgFootball
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